 Gibson Les Paul Triumph bass
The Les Paul Triumph was launched in 1971 as a replacement to the older Les Paul bass which was available from 1969-1971. The main change was the addition of a Hi-Lo impedance selector switch. Other changes were cosmetic; this switch and all other controls were all situated on the front mounted control panel. The standard finish was natural mahogany, with white becoming available from 1975(?). This bass also featured the split diamond inlays on the headstock. Shipping figures are very confused for this model.
Specifications:
- Honduras mahogany body with dark binding
- Laminated mahogany set neck, with rosewood fretboard
- Natural mahogany or white finishes
- 30½ inch scale (actually three eighths of an inch). 24 frets
- Two low impedance humbucking pickups
- Hi or Low immpedance modes
- Body size length: 17 1/4" width: 12 3/4" depth 2"
- Width at nut 1 1/2"
The shipping figures are as follows:
| |
1971 |
1972 |
1973 |
1974 |
1975 |
1976 |
1977 |
1978 |
1979 |
total |
| Les Paul Bass |
321 |
768 |
959 |
526 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
|
2578 |
| Les Paul Triumph Natural |
|
|
|
|
126 |
82 |
101 |
57 |
27 |
393 |
| Les Paul Triumph White |
|
|
|
|
80 |
87 |
|
23 |
17 |
207 |
So whats wrong with these figures - The old style Les Paul bass was still being produced in 1971, so the first years figures include some of (or even only) this model. The Triumph was first announced in 1971, but it may have been the case that it was not shipped until 1972. So Clearly from at least 1972, all Les Paul basses were the Triumph, which begs the question, why do shipping figures not count it as a Triumph until 1975. 1975 was of course the year that white finishes became available, so all basses simply labelled 'Les Paul Bass' would have had Natural Mahogany finish. The four basses labelled as Les Paul Basses made between 75 and 76 are a further anomaly. If anyone has an explanation, i'd love to hear it!
Controls
Bass, Treble and Volume Self explanetory. The bass and treble have a very wide range.
Tone Selector Three settings: hi, normal and deep bass
Phase Control Only works when both pickups are selected
Impedance Selector Hi for live use or Low for studio use (or live use with a Low-Impedance amplifier)
The Les Paul Triumph was capable of making a wide range of sounds; deep bass, clear midtones, and bright treble - plus a whole lot more in between. Check out a 1972 Triuph, and hear some more sound clips.
Rarities
Prototypes at least one single pickup Triumph exists. If you are aware of another bass like this, please get in touch
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